The Federal Republic of Somalia faces a critical threat to its sovereignty posed by Ethiopia’s aggressive territorial claims and military buildup.
While recent agreements with Egypt and Turkey have provided some benefits, they fall short of meeting Somalia’s long-term strategic and security needs. A strategic partnership with the United States, centered around the establishment of a U.S. military base at Zeila, offers a more comprehensive and effective solution.
Zeila: A Strategic Hub
Zeila’s strategic location near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, a vital maritime chokepoint, makes it an ideal site for a U.S. military base. Controlling this strategic waterway is crucial for global trade and security, particularly for the flow of energy resources. A U.S. presence at Zeila would enhance security, counter threats like piracy and terrorism, and ensure the safe passage of commercial and military vessels.
Countering Ethiopian Aggression and Chinese Influence
Djibouti currently hosts China’s only overseas military base, which poses a potential threat to Somalia’s territorial integrity. A U.S. base at Zeila would provide a counterbalance to Chinese influence in the region, ensuring that Somalia’s sovereignty is protected without external pressures.
Deterring Ethiopian Aggression
Zeila’s proximity to Ethiopia offers a strategic vantage point to monitor and respond to any potential threats. A U.S. base would serve as a deterrent against further aggression, demonstrating Somalia’s commitment to its sovereignty and its alignment with international partners dedicated to regional stability.
Supporting U.S. Military Operations
A base in Zeila would provide the U.S. military with a strategic foothold in the Horn of Africa, enhancing its capacity to conduct operations across the region, including counterterrorism efforts against groups like Al-Shabaab, and securing maritime routes.
Conclusion
We, the undersigned Members of Parliament of the House of the People of the Federal Republic of Somalia, hereby invite the U.S. government to establish a military base at Zeila Port. This strategic partnership would not only strengthen Somalia’s sovereignty but also contribute to regional stability and security.
